Charles-Michel Maria Verlat (Belgian, 1824-1900), "Mother and Daughter," 1866

The painting is titled “Mother and Daughter” by Charles-Michel Maria Verlat, a Belgian artist born in 1824 and active until 1900. It was painted in 1866, a time when Verlat was deeply influenced by the realism and academic traditions of the 19th century. The artwork captures a tender moment between a mother and child, common themes in European portraiture from that era, often reflecting ideals of family, maternal love, and innocence.

Verlat’s Mother and Daughter fits into this broader cultural movement that idealized the nuclear family, emphasizing the moral virtues of motherhood and childhood.

Verlat was known for his versatility, working across various genres including portraits, animal paintings, and religious works. This particular painting shows his skill in rendering human emotion through soft, naturalistic details. The texture of the fabric, the intricate expressions, and the intimate pose all suggest a quiet, loving bond between the two figures.

The richly ornate frame also adds to the period feel of the piece, typical of the opulent style used to emphasize classical subjects during the 19th century. It reflects the traditional aesthetic values of the time, combining sentimental themes with technical mastery.

Verlat also exhibited internationally, including at the Salon de Paris, and won several awards throughout his career. 

Belgium

1866